The National Auto Body Council (NABC) announced it has received board approval to help Operation Comfort’s Automotivation program secure a new facility in which it can continue to help disabled U.S. service members and their families through the instruction and practice of proper collision repair.

Located in San Antonio, Texas, Operation Comfort complements the rehabilitation efforts carried out by the U.S. Army at the Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC). As a form of occupational therapy, the organization runs the Automotivation program through which disabled veterans, in many cases those that have lost one or more limbs, are rehabilitated through automotive-related activities such as rebuilding and restoring cars, trucks, and motorcycles.

The property Automotivation used for training is being sold, a development made even more disheartening because Operation Comfort used the facility without a rent or utility obligation. Now, a newer, larger building much closer to the hospital is being offered for sale to Operation Comfort and the National Auto Body Council intends to raise the funds for purchasing and renovating the new building. Though fund-raising details are still being finalized, the National Auto Body Council will work with the Collision Industry Foundation, a recognized 501(c)(3) charity. Because the Foundation will be the entity through which money will be raised, those wishing to support Operation Comfort will have the option to make their donation tax deductible.

A fundraising committee is being created to seek out contributions at several different levels: corporate donations for vendors, insurers and other interested businesses, as well as body shop level and individual contributions. Matching grants are also being considered in order that businesses and employees, vendors and customers, and other partners can be invited to match funds.

“Our battle-tested veterans have given more of themselves for their country than most of us can even imagine,” stated NABC Executive Director Chuck Sulkala.

Those interested in making donations for the new Automotivation facility should contact Chuck Sulkala at 888-66-PRIDE or e-mail:chuck@autobodycouncil.org.